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Qoros, the new Chinese car manufacturer, has confirmed it is negotiating with distributors and dealers ahead of its debut in some European markets later this year.
The brand, pronounced “chorus”, was founded in 2007 and is a collaboration between the Chinese Chery brand and Israel Corporation, the international investment vehicle. It formally launched at last month’s Geneva Motor Show with the Qoros3 compact sedan (pictured).
Sales will begin in China during the second half of 2013 followed by some east European markets by the end of this year. The brand said it will then launch into major western European markets and the Middle East in 2015.
“We’re in discussion with European distributors and dealers,” confirmed a Qoros spokesperson.
The brand declined to specify its UK launch date saying its debut would be dependent on finalising its right hand drive plans. However, it has already appointed a UK PR consultant.
Qoros is pitching itself against mainstream volume carmakers rather than budget brands and confirmed the 3 sedan will be priced from €28,000 (£24,000).
Qoros boasts a strong European presence on its management team and its head of design is Gert Volker Hildebrand, Mini’s former design guru. Although based in Shanghai it will have design and development facilities in both Germany and Austria.
The 3 sedan is based on an all-new modular platform which will provide the basis for the estate concept which was also shown in Geneva. The brand said its clean sheet modular approach will enable it to launch a succession of new models at intervals of six-to-eight months.
Meanwhile, it is believed that Chinese carmaker Geely’s UK debut has been put on hold this year as the company concentrates its efforts on rebuilding the Manganese Bronze London taxi business it bought in February.